Unlocking Secrets: The Race to Save History from Old Floppy Disks

At Cambridge University Library, a dedicated team is working to rescue valuable information stored on old floppy disks. These disks, once common in offices and homes from the 1970s to the 1990s, now hold forgotten treasures like letters from politicians and lectures by the famous scientist Stephen Hawking. When the library received boxes from Hawking's office, they discovered many floppy disks among his papers. These disks could contain important details about his research and personal life, but accessing the files is a challenge.

Floppy disks may look sturdy, but the data inside is at risk. The magnetic material that stores information can break down over time, and the machines needed to read the disks are becoming rare. Archivists must search far and wide, sometimes buying old disk drives online or repairing broken equipment, just to read the files. Each disk might use a different format or software, making the process even harder. The team has found everything from letters and poems to games and lectures on these disks. Some disks are especially rare, like the three-inch Amstrad disks, which require special connectors and power cables to access.

The project is not just about saving files; it's about preserving history. The team invites the public to bring their own floppy disks to the library, hoping to unlock family memories and personal stories. Even ordinary files like old emails or work calendars can become valuable records over time. By saving these disks, the library is making sure that future generations can learn from the past. The work is urgent because the disks are getting older and the knowledge of how to read them is fading. The team believes that every disk could hold something special, and they are excited to discover what has been hidden for decades. Their efforts show how technology changes, but the need to remember and learn from history remains important.